Last week we had an action-packed week, fresh air, fun and learning.

With Covid arriving at Stanley Bay, we can reflect on how fortunate we were to complete our learning experiences outside of the classroom. Learning that was designed to engage the children in activities that build resilience, involve challenge, risk-taking and stepping outside of their comfort zone.

Whether it was going to camp, paddleboarding at Lake Pupuke or setting up a camp day on the field, these experiences teach our students' soft skills' that establish independence. In turn, these skills allow for more successful learning in the classroom and a greater sense of belonging at school and in the greater world.

One of the greatest skills we can gift our students is independence in thought and action. This is a skill for life and can be reinforced at home; encourage them to get to school on time, do some chores and turn up for sports training where and when they are supposed to; these skills lead to more confident learners.

When students are not able to get to class because they can't get up in the morning, when they miss learning because they don't know how to prioritise their time, when they are distracted by hunger, or uncertain how to act in unfamiliar situations, these factors all affect their learning and achievement.

A good way to support independence is by allowing children to organise their own after school time, especially if they are learning online, plan pick-up times and activities they can do independently, encourage them to set the alarm to get up in time for school or create a timetable for their homework or chores. Encourage them to make responsible choices and support them to accept the consequences if they don't follow through.

Every young person will find their own way; every parent will let go in their own way. But moving forward is easier for everyone — parent, student, and teacher — when life skills are passed on before needed. We hope that EOTC will go a long way to instilling some valuable organisational and independence skills and a little resilience along the way.

Thank YOU

A big thank you to all the parents who have supported us last week, whether you have stayed at the camp, put up a tent, lent your camper van, kayaked on the lake or slid down a mudslide - we really do appreciate your help. Without you, we could not offer the outdoor education experiences on offer last week. You really have gone above and beyond!